Play
Welcome to the Blue Ridge Mountains, where forests, waterfalls, mountain peaks and welcoming small towns await.
Outdoor adventure is all around. This area is home to more than 200 miles (and counting) of trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding, plus lakes and rivers for paddling and fishing. Pisgah National Forest — the first national forest unit in the U.S. — is a wonderland of rushing waterfalls and breathtaking mountain vistas.
Take a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway as it winds north from Mount Mitchell to Linville Falls, or bring your motorcycle to experience the thrill of The Diamondback. Or trade your car for a canoe as you explore the cool waters of Lake James.
Learn about the natural and cultural heritage of the region at one of our historical attractions, or try your luck at an historic gem mine. Enjoy shopping for unique and handcrafted souvenirs along Main Street and Catawba Avenue in Old Fort and in Marion's historic and vibrant downtown, where you’ll find antique shops, independent boutiques and art galleries. Or wander out to Little Switzerland or the Orchard at Altapass to peruse old-fashioned general stores.
Spend the evening sampling flights of craft beer at a local brewery, or drink in the rhythms of live music at an area venue or winery. And don’t let the rain dampen your spirit of adventure — check out local bowling alleys, arcades and skating rinks to keep the whole family entertained.
Check out the listings below to plan your next Blue Ridge Mountain vacation.
Categories
Explore More
Catawba River at Joseph McDowell Greenway
Easy walk in access, handicap accessible fishing piers and canoe/kayak access available from three points along the greenway. This section…
Point Lookout Trail
Spectacular views of the Royal Gorge and 19th-century railroad tunnels. In 2022, the Point Lookout Trail was included as a…
Camp Grier
Camp Grier is ideal for family and individual vacations! Enjoy adventures like horse riding and mountain biking on 600 acres of beautiful land in Old Fort!
Switzerland Cafe and General Store
For over 30 years, the cafe has been serving homemade sandwiches, soups and quiche. Their Applewood smoked, pulled pork BBQ…
Linville Falls
Visit Linville Falls, an amazing three-tiered waterfall along the Blue Ridge Parkway. With many ways to access the falls, it is one of the most popular spots!
Greenlee Park
Greenlee Park is the perfect spot to spend the day, with accesses to Lake James for water sports, covered picnic areas, and a 1.1 mile nature trail loop!
Painters Greenhouse
Painters Greenhouse in Old Fort is your destination for any kind of plant you desire! Stop by to browse the homegrown plants, gardens, and picnic areas!
Emerald Village
Discover Emerald Village, a group of real, historic gem, mining, and historical attractions in Little Switzerland, NC. There's so much to see and explore!
Newberry Creek Trail
Scenic trail ending at Blue Ridge Parkway. Top elevation is 4,300 feet. East of Old Fort, take Curtis Creek Road…
Young's Ridge
Trailhead begins inside the Old Fort Picnic Area with incredible views of Kitsuma Peak at trail end. Elevation is 3,165…
Mill Creek
Old Fort has the distinction of being a certified N.C. Mountain Trout Town! Why? Mill Creek runs through the downtown…
McDowell Arts Council Association
The McDowell Arts Council offers a variety of classes, hosts a unique gift shop filled with local artisans' works and…
English Farmstead Cheese
Visit English Farmstead Cheese in Marion, NC, a quaint shop that offers a variety of cheeses and local fare. All cheeses are crafted from milk produced on-site!
Old Fort Gateway Trail System
June 26th marked the opening of Phase I of the Old Fort Gateway Trail System. Phase I is six miles…
Lake James Sunset Cruises
Experience beautiful Lake James from the luxurious top deck of a modern houseboat.Views for days, we will see Shortoff Mountain,…
Catawba River Outdoors
Everything you need for an excursion on the Catawba River! Catawba River Outdoors offers tube rentals and river shuttle service to various locations.